News Summary

City officials in Aiken, S.C. have reported a decline in complaints about discolored tap water, which previously affected several thousand residents. This improvement follows the city’s active management strategies, including flushing the water system. The discoloration was primarily caused by sediment disturbances in the aging pipes, particularly during heat waves. Although the water remains safe for consumption, residents are advised to avoid using discolored water for laundry. A unidirectional flushing program is set to begin soon to further address the issue, alongside plans for a larger water treatment facility in the future.

Aiken, S.C. – City officials in Aiken have reported a decrease in complaints regarding discolored tap water, indicating a positive trend for residents. The discoloration, which has been described as brownish, primarily resulted from sediment disturbances within the city’s water distribution system. City officials have been actively managing the situation by flushing the water system, which involves leaving fire hydrants open to help clear the brown water and clean the pipes.

Recent updates from the city suggest that many residents have observed improvements, with their tap water returning to its clear state. Despite the discoloration witnessed in recent weeks, officials have reassured the public that the water remains safe for consumption. However, residents are advised to avoid using any discolored water for washing clothes, as it may cause stains.

City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh noted that the initial impact of the issue affected several thousand out of the city’s 22,000 water customers. Reports of discoloration have significantly declined from thousands to a few hundred. The discoloration problem intensified during periods of high water usage, particularly during heat waves that have seen temperatures nearly reach ten degrees above average.

All four of Aiken’s water treatment plants have been operating at full capacity, which has contributed to the stirring of sediment within the pipes. Many of the water pipes in Aiken are over a century old, and recent infrastructure work, including a valve replacement and a scheduled shutdown at U.S. 1 linked to water main activities, further complicated the situation.

Restaurants in downtown Aiken felt the effects of the water discoloration, leading to temporary closures and creating a ghost town atmosphere. In response to the concerns, business owners have taken precautions by offering bottled water to customers, even after the brown water has cleared.

The onset of discolored water reports began on June 25, following infrastructure work and elevated demand from residents. Aiken’s Mayor Teddy Milner issued an apology to the community, acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the discoloration. To maintain public health safety, the city conducts daily tests of the water and has consistently assured residents that it does not pose any health risks. The discoloration has been attributed to existing sediments in the water lines rather than any form of contamination.

To further alleviate the sediment problem, the city plans to implement a unidirectional flushing program starting on July 14. This program will aim to reduce sediment accumulation in the pipes over time. Additionally, residents who encounter discolored water are advised to run their faucets for approximately four gallons to help clear the lines. If water remains discolored after doing so, they should wait before attempting again.

A long-term solution is in the works, involving the construction of a larger water treatment plant that is set to be completed by 2027. City officials have emphasized that while the availability of water is not an issue, the speed at which it moves through the aging pipes remains a critical challenge.

As the city continues to address the water quality concerns, officials urge residents to stay informed about the situation and to report any discolored water issues through the city’s designated online platform. The ongoing efforts by city staff demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of Aiken’s residents regarding their water supply.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Aiken Reports Decrease in Discolored Tap Water Complaints
Aiken Faces Water Discoloration Crisis Impacting Residents and Businesses
Aiken County Issues Boil Water Advisory Following Water Service Disruptions
Investigation Launched After 18-Year-Old Found Dead in Pool
I-20 in Aiken County Reopens After Overpass Collapse
Windsor Man Wade Sweat III Dies from Crash Injuries
Aiken County Man Dies Following Single-Vehicle Crash
Aiken County Board Approves $289.9 Million Budget Increase
Aiken County Approves School Budget with Millage Rate Increase
Shooting Leaves 11 Injured in Little River Marina Incident

Additional Resources

• WJBF: Reports of Discolored Water Throughout City of Aiken, S.C.
• Google Search: Discolored Water Aiken
• WRDW: Aiken Officials Say Water Discoloration is Gradually Clearing Up
• Wikipedia: Water Quality
• WFXG: City of Aiken Responds to Widespread Discolored Water Reports
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Water Quality
• Post and Courier: Discolored Water City Aiken Hydrants
• Google News: Aiken Water Discoloration
• WRDW: Safety Alert: What to Know About Discolored Water Aiken

Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN

The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.